The fourth son of the Sultan of Brunei and one of Asia’s most eligible blue-blood bachelors, Prince Abdul Mateen is the epitome of a prince charming. Dressed in a classic 3-piece suit that perfectly outlines his athletic figure, or dressed in his casual everyday clothes; jeans and a shirt - he is impressively handsome with his hair neatly trimmed and slicked back. His chiseled looks are reminiscent of old classic Hollywood; a young Cary Grant perhaps. His naturally blushed lips and light brown eyes contrast perfectly against his dark tan skin.

He moves elegantly; his posture and gestures are natural and confident. He is well mannered, well spoken despite the hint of shyness. And at the young age of 24, the Prince has a commanding presence.

No wonder he’s been the talk of the town among the ladies since his first visit to Thailand at the end of last year. And in a very short time since we virtually introduced him to the Thai people with our exclusive interview teaser, the response of the Thai people to the Prince has been explosive, to say the least. His Instagram went from 90K followers to 240K, and the traffic of tweets and comments, and interest in the Prince reached a fever pitch in just a few days.

Even though Brunei is one of the wealthiest countries in the world, the Prince is a grounded man who doesn’t like to flaunt his family’s wealth. He is more interested in the simple life, his passions, time with family and friends, and his other noble pursuits. He treats everyone with respect and kindness. He say’s thank you at the end of every sentence, and he makes no distinction of class or social status in his interactions with the people around him. While his physical attributes may be what commands people’s attention most, it is his character and humility that best exemplifies his nobility.

Speaking exclusively to GQ Thailand, the Prince speaks of his passions, his current interests and lifestyle, experience in the military, his impression of Thailand, and the qualities he looks for in his future princess.

1. What is your reaction to the overwhelming response you’ve received from the Thai people after we initially published your story on our website?

“It has been overwhelming to say the least. Of course, all I want to do with social media, as it is a great way to show your interest, your passions and hobbies, and where you come from, is to show how beautiful Brunei is and what my passions are. And so to get the amount of attention on my Instagram, or just people talking about me in general through social media has been overwhelming, but something I am grateful for. Honestly, I was rather surprised that I received so much attention; I really just thought it would be a small interview, and all I was hoping for was that the Thai people got to know my country and me a little better. I did not expect at all that it would be of this magnitude. I’m just really flattered (big shy smile). “

2. And while most of the comments and reaction have been of admiration, there where some negative or inappropriate aspects to it, did that bother you at all?

“No it doesn’t really bother me at all. I mean, you get positive and negative comments from everyone. That’s life really, so it doesn’t bother me at all. I was rather more concerned about some of the apologies from the Thai people regarding some of the negative or inappropriate comments on my IG after a few of my Thai friends had translated some of the comments. I’m a good sport, and I take the good with the bad. But one point I want to make clear is that I am very fond of the Thai people, and see nothing but positivity in their nature and intention. Again, I am very grateful for, and flattered by their interest and admiration in me. “

3. As you are the center of attention in Thailand at the moment, or even at home as a member of the royal family in Brunei, how do you feel about being in the spotlight?

“Well, I was born into it so it is a norm to me. I think if your born into it, being in the spotlight constantly since you were young, you become used to it, and it doesn’t really get into your head and so it doesn’t bother me. Maybe it’s a good thing as well, because if you become the center of attention all of sudden, it really gets to your head, and then it becomes hard to remain grounded, or humble.”

4. Do you like the attention?

“Honestly, sometimes you shy away from it, but what can you do? Sometimes it’s beyond your control, you can’t stop the people’s curiosity. The important thing is how to use that attention in a positive way. When you have such an audience or attention, it’s also a great opportunity to do something good, to spread, or create awareness for an important issue etc. Another thing is to be grounded and humble at the same time, and I’m very grateful that my parents brought me up in way where I have to keep my head set and grounded. Also being around good people, because ultimately, the people around you influence how you run your life, and I have really good friends who constantly keep me in check. Today you met three of my closest friends Soon, Danny and Prawan, whom I’ve either grown up with, or met in University. They are my pack and they are another important factor in keeping me grounded. “

5. After the Thai people have gone crazy for you, they all have an image of you and ways to describe you, using words likes ‘Prince Charming’ or ‘handsome’ etc. How do you see yourself, and how would you describe yourself in a few words?

“(Smiling and giggling) I think I can be ‘funny’ oh this is hard (pause) ’weird’ (pause) but in a good way, (long pause) I think I’m sweet (cheeky smile), and simple.”

6. You mentioned your family as a big influence in your life; can you describe your relationship with your family?

“I have a really big family, but I’m closest to my elder brother and two sisters. We do everything together, grew up together, and live together. I mean, I have my friends, but you can’t go away from family, they are blood and we are very close. And their love and support has been a very positive influence in my life. “

7. Being a Lieutenant in the Brunei armed services, and having graduated from the prestigious Military Academy Sandhurst, how has your strong military background helped you develop as a man?

“Well I entered Sandhusrt when I was eighteen; actually I was one of the youngest candidates. Sandhurst is basically a 44-week grueling course of leadership, mental strength and physical strength basically testing your ability to function under extreme pressure (actually I met a very good Thai friend there who was in my platoon). Let me just tell you the essence of my military training through this one experience I had. The most grueling thing I did was this digging exercise…we had to dig trenches for three days straight non-stop with no sleep, and every time I started to fall asleep, the instructors would kick me and wake me up – because that’s what they are trying to do, physically exhaust you to your limit. At the end of it, having been physically exhausted beyond my limit, they would make us think, and solve problems – and that was one of the toughest things I’ve ever had to do. Or, another example is having to complete a 74 kilometers race, non-stop walking, up 7 mountains in 24 hours. And that’s essentially what we did for 44 weeks. But looking back on it, it’s been the greatest thing I’ve ever done because it’s really made me become a physically and mentally strong person. And these are the qualities and attributes that any good leader must have; the ability to work under extreme pressure. Graduating from Sandhurst is probably one of the accomplishments to date that I am most proud of.”

8. Having been playing for just a little over a year and a half, your passion for the sport of polo is undeniable. What it was about Polo that excites and fascinates you the most?

“The risk factors involved and the complexities of the game are what fascinates me most. For example, in your left hand you have to control the wild animal below you, and in your right hand you have to control the mallet and have a very calm swing, so in a sense you have to be very aggressive and calm at the same time. Unlike any other sport where you have complete control over where you want to be, or go, commanding a wild animal to do what you want it to do is in itself very difficult. Now imagine doing that with one hand, and at the same time, trying to hit a ball with a mallet in your other hand. There’s so many things going on, and you really have to multitask and have perfect control of not only your own body, but also the horse a well. It’s such a complex sport and the challenge of having that kind of control is also what I love about Polo. “

9. Aside from Polo, what are some of your other Interests and Pursuits?

“Well I love to keep fit, so I love to do sports. I do some boxing. I play football, and Badminton. I was in the military, so anything that keeps me fit and going makes me happy. The moment I feel my fitness level dropping, it makes me feel funny, so being active and staying in shape is very important to me. Flying is another thing I’m very interested in, and pursuing. I will start training in August. I like to have different skills and flying is a skill I’d like to have. My father flies his own plane and also a helicopter, and that’s also been an inspiration in taking up flying. At the moment, I’m pursuing my Masters degree in International Diplomacy at SOAS, University in London, so I also like to read up on current events, and I have a keen interest on the latest global issues. Aside from those things, in general, I’m a simple guy. I like to relax when I’m not doing sports, or performing my duties. Let’s just say I like my free time and I like to spend it with my close friends chilling and watching movies.”

10. You like to watch movies, what was the last memorable movie you watched?

I love movies! And I recently watched ‘The Big Short’ which is about the financial collapse, and that was well made and I really enjoyed it. They story does well to explain a complicated crisis in a way that everyone can understand. It was both enjoyable and informative so I really liked it. As you know, today Leonardo Dicaprio finally won an Oscar for ‘The Revanant.’ Now I haven’t seen it, but it will certainly be the next movie I catch. “

11. You’re actually a skilled boxer as we’ve seen from your sparing videos; can you tell us more about your passion for boxing?

“I love boxing and it keeps me fit. It’s something I can enjoy while burning a lot of calories. Initially it was just to get fit. I have a really good trainer back in London who I see twice a week and it eventually it became a passion. I’ve been doing it for 3 – 4 years now and I am still doing it. And my trainer doesn’t go easy on me at all; when we spar he goes full on, which is the best way to learn. MMA is something that I’m also getting into, especially Muay Thai. I started to do Jujitsu but it’s not something I’ve pursued. But I’ll tell you I also really enjoy watching MMA. As you know it’s getting really big and I’m really big into Conor McGregor at the moment because he’s such a great character. He talks a lot but he really backs it up and puts in the hard work. I admire that and can relate to that; putting in the hard work to achieve something great. I’m really looking forward to the fight between Conor McGregor and Nate Diaz this weekend. “

12. You’re obviously a very active person in terms of sports and activities, how do you feel about the arts, music and such?

“Well I used to play the drums and I play a little bit of the guitar now but nothing serious. I do enjoy playing the guitar occasionally but that’s about it. I’m also not a big music person; I mostly listen to pop, or mainstream stuff. It’s just something that I’m not big on so I would be embarrassed to tell you exactly what bands, or groups I’m into. And I can’t draw to save my life, so the arts is something that is not my forte (laugh).

13. Who has had a profound influence on you, your idol, or inspiration?

“Honestly growing up I was a big football fan and David Beckham was my biggest idol, even till today I think he’s a pretty incredible guy. I used to play a lot of football and get his haircuts and his style. And that’s why I’m still supporting Manchester United.”

14. Who’s the most beautiful woman at the moment, a celebrity crush perhaps?

Ooooo….that’s a hard one. Well I might have one in mind, but I’m going to keep that a secret (blushing) just because it’s fun that way (laughing). It’s not always good to reveal everything eh…keep’em guessing (smile).

15. There are many women here who would like to know, what are the qualities you look for in your future princess?

“Well, in just a few words I would say someone who is in genuine and real. Someone who is very simple, that’s what I like. (Smiles). “

16. How was your first visit to Thailand and what is your impression of Thailand?

“I think Thailand has a lot of character to it. I really enjoyed my stay; I had a very good two weeks here. People are very genuine, friendly, and respectful. The culture around has so much character to it, and most importantly the food is amazing, especially the ‘larb’ and some street food as well. I like spicy food, so Thai food is something I really enjoy. Unfortunately the focus of the trip was Polo, and by the time I finish I just wanted to relax and wind down, so I did have the opportunity to explore, or do the sightseeing, or cultural things, just playing polo and having dinner in the city as much as I could. However, I would love to come back and explore more of the Bangkok, and Thailand as well.”

17. What would you like to do in Thailand on your next visit?

“I would love to see the temples and see the rich cultural aspects of Thailand. Perhaps get the chance to build a stronger relationship with the Thai people as well. But also, I want to visit the beach resorts of Phuket, or Pattaya. I’m not really a city person and much rather prefer to be in nature, or on the beach – Thailand is renowned for the beautiful beaches – and so that is something I definitely want to experience. As I mentioned, I love Thai food and spicy food, so I will definitely have to sample more of the local delicacies and favorites. “

18. Speaking of Food, after we mentioned that you love larb, many Thai’s have been saying how they would gladly make you larb. For their reference, on a scale of 1 – 10, 10 being the spiciest; how spicy would you like your larb?

“(Laughing) Definitely 8 out of 10! I can take my spice!”

19. What message would you like to leave the people of Thailand?

“Just want to say thank you, everyone in Thailand for the overwhelming support and I’m truly grateful and flattered. More importantly, I’d like to see more Thai people coming to Brunei. Brunei may be a small country but it’s a beautiful country with many things to do during the day. For example, we have a forest resort in a district called Temburong, which is a natural reserve. You can go through canopy walks, walk through the forest, there are beautiful waterfalls and white water rafting. And whatever you see there is all natural, nothing has been planted, or artificial. It’s one of the most remaining natural places in the world. We have world-class golf courses and amazing beaches as well. The market food, or street food here is delicious and something you must try. So people go out to the markets buy food and bring it home. It’s a very similar eating culture to Thailand in that sense; similar, but in a different way (smile).”